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Tolowa Dance Demonstration: July 16, 2011

On Saturday, July 16th, members of the Tolowa Nation will present a dance demonstration at 2 p.m. at the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park day use area, located off U.S. 199, just west of the community of Hiouchi, Calif. The demonstration is open to the public, free of charge, and will last about an hour.

The dance demonstration is co-hosted by Redwood National and State Parks, Redwood Parks Association, and members of the Tolowa Nation.

Dance is an important part of the Tolowa culture, meant to reestablish positive relationships between humans and the earth. The dance, called Nee-dash in Tolowa, is a renewal ceremony that is traditionally performed inside a redwood plank house. For the demonstration, the program will be held in a redwood grove overlooking the Smith River. Many northwestern California tribes continue to pass on their language, arts, and traditions, particularly in the form of song and dance.

Come share in this celebration of local cultural diversity. Bring blankets or folding chairs, as seating may be limited. For more information about this event please contact National Park Ranger Jim Wheeler at 707-465-7764.